Ministry snapshots -- A MOBILE WITNESS

1/21/2011

A new ministry by Glencoe UMC is refurbishing motorized wheelchairs and scooters to assist people who face mobility challenges.

The name of the program is GUMMM—Glencoe United Methodist Mobility Ministries. Its mission in the name of Christ is "to provide mobility devices to non-ambulatory persons who have few resources, in order to encourage a more active lifestyle."

The target population includes elderly or disabled people who lack financial resources but do not qualify for assistance from government, private insurance, or other agencies or sources. GUMMM will aid in finding and acquiring mobility devices for them, at little or no cost to them, according to a letter from the ministry team at the Glencoe church.

The team is seeking used power chairs and scooters, in any condition.

"Our volunteer members will refurnish and repair these units for recycling. We will gladly pick up donated units and issue a receipt for the value of the chair, for tax purposes," the letter states.

"Often the power chair is taking up space in a storage unit or garage. How wonderful to know these can take on a new life by helping someone in need."

Kenneth Brake, one of the GUMMM founders, has used a power chair for years and serves as the resident expert for this project.

Retired pastor Harold Wheeler also was key in establishing the ministry. In early 2010, he shared with the Church Council at Glencoe UMC his concerns for people unable to afford such devices, his research, and his idea for ministry. The council agreed.